Welcoming disabled individuals into leadership brings fresh perspectives, challenges stereotypes, and deepens the sense of belonging for all. When leadership is truly inclusive, faith communities become more compassionate, equitable, and reflective of the diverse people they serve.
Varied Perspectives and Experiences
People with disabilities bring unique insights shaped by navigating a world not always designed for them. Their experiences often lead to innovative solutions that benefit entire communities. For example, Dr. James Marsters, a deaf orthodontist, co-developed the TTY (text telephone) system and made the first long-distance TTY call in 1964. This technology revolutionized communication for the deaf and hard of hearing, and inspired text messaging which is widely used today. Similarly, disabled faith leaders may help design more inclusive worship services, events, and outreach programs. [continue reading…]
As we begin the spring season, we recognize several important religious observances happening across different faiths. Embracing and accommodating these events within our faith communities fosters inclusivity and respect for all traditions. It’s essential that we create spaces where everyone, regardless of ability, can fully engage in these celebrations. 
Work requirements are federal or state policies that mandate individuals to work or participate in job-related activities in order to receive benefits such as Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and housing assistance. While framed as promoting independence, too often these policies fail to account for the challenges faced by people with disabilities.
At Disability Belongs™, we fight stigmas and advance opportunities so people with disabilities can fully participate in all aspects of community life, including the workforce. Yet, disabled people still face significant barriers in finding and retaining meaningful employment. 
The U.S. Department of Education plays a critical role in ensuring that students with disabilities receive access to inclusive education, services, and legal protections under federal law. Recent proposals to dismantle, restructure, and defund the Department threaten to undermine decades of progress in disability rights and educational equity. This policy brief outlines the essential role of the Department of Education, the risks posed by dismantling it, and a call to action to safeguard the rights and opportunities of students with disabilities. 
Washington, D.C., March 18 – This past week, reports confirmed that the Department of Education 
Accessibility is not just a checklist to tick off; it is an ongoing commitment to ensuring that all members, from every background and belief, feel truly valued and embraced. Every individual, regardless of ability, should have the opportunity to fully engage in worship, rituals, traditions, and community life. Creating and nurturing an accessible faith community is a profound testament to the power of inclusion, the depth of belonging, and the strength of our shared humanity.
Under current law, more than one million Americans with lifelong disabilities who receive benefits as ‘Disabled Adult Children’ (DACs) lose their Social Security and Medicare benefits if they marry a non-disabled person. This can severely limit disabled individuals from having access to lives of their choosing, including marriage. People shouldn’t have to choose between marriage to the person they love and losing their benefits.
In 2020, filmmaker and disability advocate Juliet Romeo reached out to Slamdance Film Festival co-founder Peter Baxter, stressing the need for a program by and for disabled filmmakers. Conversations turned to action, and Slamdance Unstoppable was born. In 2021, Slamdance featured a showcase of disability-inclusive short films at its virtual festival, and by 2023, Slamdance Unstoppable had grown to include short and feature films, screening both in-person and virtually.
